Bangladesh Elections: Tarique Rahman Unveils BNP Manifesto, Targets Middle Class and Water Disputes with India

Dhaka: With Bangladesh’s general elections scheduled for 12 February, political parties are intensifying their campaigns. The Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) has released its manifesto, with party leader Tarique Rahman outlining promises on the economy, foreign policy, defense, and law and order.

Economic Focus: Empowering the Middle Class

Speaking on Friday, 6 February, Rahman emphasized that if BNP returns to power, the first priority will be creating jobs for the middle class and transforming Bangladesh’s debt-driven economy into an investment-led one. “Our government will work to build a $1 trillion economy by 2034, elevating Bangladesh to an upper-middle-income nation,” he declared.

The manifesto stresses that economic growth will be inclusive, based on the productive power of every citizen rather than special privileges for any group. Rahman added, “We aim to dismantle elitist structures and ensure everyone receives their due rights. True development occurs only when the middle class thrives, and today it has nearly vanished in Bangladesh. We will reintegrate it into the mainstream.”

Foreign Policy: ‘Bangladesh First’ Approach

The BNP’s manifesto outlines a foreign policy strategy prioritizing national sovereignty and security. “Our approach treats neighbors as partners, not masters,” Rahman said, promising a Bangladesh that commands respect and responsibility on the global stage.

Highlighting water-sharing concerns with India, Rahman said, “Issues related to the Padma, Teesta, and other rivers will be prioritized. We will work to secure Bangladesh’s fair share of water through continuous dialogue.”

BNP’s Legacy and Current Challenges

Founded in 1978 by Tarique Rahman’s father, Ziaur Rahman, the BNP achieved its first major electoral victory in 1979. Following Ziaur Rahman’s assassination, Tarique’s mother, Khaleda Zia, led the party from 1984 and became Bangladesh’s first female prime minister. After her death, Tarique Rahman assumed leadership.

During Sheikh Hasina’s government from 2009 to 2024, BNP faced political challenges, with both Khaleda Zia and Tarique Rahman facing legal cases. BNP boycotted the 2014 and 2024 elections citing concerns over transparency.

With elections just days away, Tarique Rahman’s manifesto aims to win back the confidence of Bangladesh’s middle class while positioning BNP as a decisive force in both domestic and foreign policy matters.